Our Story

In 1996, our family made the journey from South Africa to New Zealand, continuing a long tradition of emigration. With roots stretching from Germany and Ireland to South Africa and England, our move to Aotearoa was more than a relocation, it was the beginning of something enduring. Carl and Deborah fell in love with the land and the people, and were inspired to build a legacy that would take root in the hills of Northland for generations to come.

Danbri Farm was born from that dream. Starting with little more than clay soil, bush, and determination, Carl began restoring a tired piece of land near the Kaipara Harbour into a thriving Angus beef farm. Inspired by a childhood love of farming and supported by Deborah’s passion for storytelling and community, the whole family, including children and grandchildren, have helped shape the land into a home.

Farming is done differently on Danbri. Nature is given space to regenerate and thrive alongside people. Things move slowly, at the speed of the slowest animal or in time with the rhythm of the seasons. The animals live a life of dignity and never leave the farm.

Trees are planted as shade for the grandkids. For Carl and the family, this is a special place.

The Name

We are often asked about how we settled on the name of the farm.  We went through a thoughtful process of historical references or geographical locations, and we settled on a hybrid of the children’s names, Daniel and Brittany. 

In keeping with this philosophy, we have continued to name paddocks and dams and notable trees after colourful people and our charismatic pets.

The Dogs

As dog loving family, we could not imagine Danbri Farm without our loveable 'bounce' of Jack Russell terriers. These loyal little clowns are our constant companions, they love being the centre of attention and are high on farm life. They are enthusiastic about everything, especially predator patrol. They are very adept at the skills they were bred for and its quite a sight to see their energy when they hunt in a pack.

The proud Jack Rusell in our logo is modelled on Tilly Tuppence. Tilly was Miss-large-and-in-charge. She was the bossy boots doyenne of the pack and ruled the roost. She was the best natured top dog and so clever. Sadly, she met her Waterloo in 2022 and is buried under a tree in a special spot on the farm. We miss her dreadfully.

The Philosophy

At Danbri, we welcome the questions conscious consumers are asking: Where does my food come from? How was the animal treated?

Our farm began with a promise, to work with the land, not just take from it. We farm slowly, thoughtfully, and in tune with nature, planting and harvesting in response to the needs of the soil and seasons.

Animal welfare is central. Our cattle never face the fear of transport or distant abattoirs. They live and die on the farm, in calm, familiar paddocks.

It’s not the easiest path, but it’s the right one. That’s the Danbri way.